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Aramahosi Posted 16 years ago
Grammar
Plural?
"only a very small fraction are preserved as fossils"
Why is the copula plural in that sentence? The subject seems to be singular though.
Thanks in advance.
Why is the copula plural in that sentence? The subject seems to be singular though.
Thanks in advance.
Top answer
aramahosi Why is the copula plural in that sentence? Although the partitive expression a fraction may occur in subject position, it does enter into agreement with the verb. Only the noun in the following of phrase governs agreement with the verb.
- aramahosi Why is the copula plural in that sentence?
- Although the partitive expression a fraction may occur in subject position, it does enter into agreement with the verb.
- Only the noun in the following of phrase governs agreement with the verb.
- Thus: A fraction of the samples were spoiled.
- A fraction of the cake was eaten.
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1 Answers
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aramahosiWhy is the copula plural in that sentence?Although the partitive expression a fraction may occur in subject position, it does enter into agreement with the verb. Only the noun in the following of phrase governs agreement with the verb. Thus:
A fraction of the samples were spoiled.
A fraction of the
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